The Very Best of Julie London By Jaedyn James & Alex Browne
2025-11-28 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago)
“Sultry and powerful R&B… fierce” – Maximum Ink

“The Very Best of Julie London” will be a sultry night celebrating a jazz icon’s greatest hits and timeless elegance. Produced and performed by Jaedyn James and Alex Browne and backed by an incredible full band featuring strings, horns, flute, piano, and upright bass.
Julie London is a renowned American singer and actress, celebrated for her sultry voice and intimate singing style. Born in California in 1926, Julie began her career in the entertainment industry as an actress in the 1940s. However, it was her musical talent that truly set her apart. Then, her breakthrough came with the 1955 release of “Cry Me a River”. This song showcased her smoky vocal tone and became an instant classic. Throughout her career, Julie recorded over thirty albums, often working with top jazz musicians and arrangers.
Vocalist Jaedyn James is a dynamic force in the music industry, seamlessly blending her talents as a singer, songwriter, producer, and entertainer. She is well-known for her powerhouse vocals and captivating stage presence. Moreover, Jaedyn has carved a niche for herself with her unique sound that often fuses elements of soul, funk, and R&B. Additionally, her songwriting reflects a keen insight into the human experience, touching on themes of love, resilience, and empowerment. Whether performing live or crafting new events, Jaedyn James continues to captivate audiences and push the boundaries of her artistry.
Music Director Alex Browne is a versatile musician whose talents span across trumpet playing, teaching, and bandleading. As a trumpet player, Alex showcases a profound mastery of the instrument. Here, they captivate audiences, performing with acts such as Bebe Zahara, Purple Funk Metropolis, and Jaedyn James. However, their passion for music extends beyond performance. A dedicated teacher, Alex inspires students of all ages at Walker West and MCTC.
Recommended for fans of Julie London, Irma Thomas, Anita O’Day and Ella Fitzgerald.

Shaun LaBelle feat. Najee & Brian Simpson
2025-11-29 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-11-29 21:00 - 23:00
“smooth jazz with an edge, with funk and rock elements” – Pioneer Press

Shaun LaBelle’s producing career has been filled with legendary groups. For example, David Pack (Ambrosia), Everette Harp, Jeff Kashiwa, and Steve Reid (Rippingtons.) Also, Shaun has worked with Branford Marsalis and the group Pieces of a Dream. Shaun performed bass on the Larger Than Life tour for Grammy award-winning recording artist Jody Watley. Currently, Shaun’s new releases Your Love Kept Calling my Name and Mon Cher Amour have charted on Billboard. Here, he reached Number Eighteen on the smooth jazz charts and Number One on UK Soul, three weeks in a row.
Najee is a fearless chart-topping contemporary jazz pioneer. In a business where trends and artists come and go, the genre-bending saxophonist’s staying power is a rare blessing. The Grammy and NAACP award-winning musician is one of the brightest stars in contemporary jazz for close to four decades. Here, he credits his genuine love for connecting with people, coupled with his consummate musicianship and sheer passion for music. Moreover, he has collaborated with Prince, Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan, and Herbie Hancock, among others.
Keyboardist/composer Brian Simpson moved to Los Angeles directly after college. Soon, he was playing alongside Gerald Albright and Norman Brown and eventually on a world tour with Janet Jackson. In 1990 Simpson received a call from George Duke. Then, Simpson spent the next decade touring and producing with the late jazz legend. It was his tenure with George that led to working with a variety of artists. There, he connected with James Ingram, Anita Baker, Dave Koz, and Wayman Tisdale.
Recommended for fans of Jeff Lorber, David Sanborn, Bob James and Marcus Miller.

Nicholas David: St. Nick's Show & Album Release
2025-12-03 20:00 - 22:00
“infectious as hell… passionate” – City Pages

After five years in the making, Nicholas David is celebrating his first vinyl release: More Than Music.
The St. Paul singer/songwriter has been making music from the heart, for the heart for nearly thirty years. Like the mighty Mississippi River, David’s musical journey rocks n’ rolls like a cosmic current. Here, his music has taken him from coast to coast and across the pond.
David had an unforgettable run on NBC’s The Voice. There, he met Bill Withers, sang with Smokey Robinson and finished in Third Place! Recently, David has been riding along the rock n roll highway with the Allman Brothers sons.
Come celebrate an evening where dreams and reality mix into music. Also, help us celebrate the twelfth year of the St. Nick’s day show.
Recommended for fans of Dr. John, Ray Lamontagne, Leon Bridges and Amos Lee.

Ladies Of Soul, Vol. 2 – A Tribute to Jill Scott, Erykah Badu & Angie Stone
2025-12-12 19:00 - 21:00
An evening featuring some of the greatest neo-soul music ever created, from three of the greatest female artists of the last 30 years!

Vocalists –
Solorah The Essence
Ashley Commodore
Monique Blakey
Band –
Ethan Yeshaya – bass
Deevo – guitar
RAWTWHYLAH – drums
Tommy Barbarella – keys
The next chapter of Ladies of Soul is here! Volume One celebrated greats of the 1970s and 80s. Now, Volume 2 explores three artists from the 1990s and 2000s – Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, and Angie Stone. These powerful women pushed the boundaries of genre, incorporating hip-hop, rock, and pop elements into R&B traditions. Their explorations gave rise to neo-soul, and these three became household names!
Solorah The Essence is the vocalist/leader of jazz/R&B fusion collective Bakkwooddrift. Here, her angelic voice embodies soulful black music.
Ashley Commodore is a singer from a family of talented, accomplished musicians. Her mother Ginger, father Bobby, and brother Brandon are all Twin Cities gems performing in varied music genres. Ashley has been featured with Grammy Award winning group the Sounds of Blackness. Additionally, she currently tours with national recording artist Stokley Williams. Further, she is the newest member of the jazz vocal ensemble, Moore By Four. When not out on the road with Stokley & the VÜ, you can find her sitting in with the Dr Mambo’s Combo at Bunkers Bar and Grill.
Singer/songwriter/actor Monique Blakey discovered her very large voice at a very young age. She began singing at the age of five and acting by the age of nine. Monique was immediately thrust into talent shows, plays, and hasn’t shown any signs of slowing down yet! Additionally, she has worked on network TV, recorded with several mainstream artists, and acted in several stage productions. Also, she recently landed her first role in a Hulu series.

Merry Christmas From José James
2025-12-16 19:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-17 19:00 - 21:00
“eclectic, groove-minded jazz singer” – NPR

With:
José James – vocals
Jahari Stampley – piano
Kanoa Mendenhall – bass
Otis Brown III – drums
“Merry Christmas from José James” raises the bar for the contemporary Christmas show. James combines the classic jazz-crooner elegance of Frank Sinatra and Nat “King” Cole with the earthy sophistication of soul legends Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway. Further, James breathes new life into much-loved holiday classics such as “The Christmas Song”, “White Christmas” and “Let it Snow”. Moreover, the show will feature new compositions by James and his partner Talia Billig. In addition to showcasing his crooner chops, the 50 Shades Darker singer explores his jazz side. The show includes a joyful rendition of John Coltrane’s “My Favorite Things.”
A jazz artist for the hip-hop generation, James artfully blurs the lines between traditional and contemporary jazz, hip-hop, soul, funk, pop and rock. Also, he has released eleven critically acclaimed albums in as many years. Further, James is the recipient of both the Edison Award and L’Académie du Jazz Grand Prix. He has collaborated with many notable artists like Flying Lotus, Robert Glasper, Lalah Hathaway, Ledisi, Aloe Blacc and Jason Moran.
Jahari Stampley is a Chicago-born pianist who began playing the piano at the age of fourteen. Within two years of exploring the instrument, he began winning various competitions. Then, by the age of eighteen, he became recognized and followed by many world-renowned musicians. These include Yebba Smith, Jill Scott, Robert Glasper, Cory Henry, Jacob Collier, Stanley Clarke, and Derrick Hodge, among others. Additionally, Jahari has toured with Stanley Clarke and is featured on Derrick Hodge’s Color of Noise album.
Recommended for fans of Robert Glasper, Meshell Ndegeocello, Lizz Wright and Christian McBride.
📸: Janette Beckman

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe
2026-01-02 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-01-02 21:00 - 23:00
“complex yet danceable beats… dirty blues, spacey soul” – Glide

KDTU has electrified audiences around the world for over twenty-five years. They have played the fields of Naeba in Japan at the infamous Fuji Rock Festival. Also, the hallowed stage of Madison Square Garden, joining the Dave Matthews Band and The Godfather of Soul, James Brown. Further, he performed as Sexual Chocolate (Karl was in the original band in the movie Coming To America and its sequel) at the Outside Lands Music festival in San Francisco. And, they were the first late night act at the inaugural Bonnaroo festival. KDTU has been a dominating force in music for nearly three decades.
All-night, sold-out concerts during Jazzfest in New Orleans have featured sit-ins by legends like Lenny Kravitz and Steve Winwood. (Karl has recorded and toured with both!) Also, avant-garde luminaries like Marc Ribot and Boyfriend. Rolling Stones bandmates Chuck Leavell and Bernard Fowler have also joined onstage and on record. There, Karl replaced the great Bobby Keys as saxophonist in 2014. Denson has also worked with Lukas Nelson, John Oates, Michael Franti, Warren Haynes, Ivan Neville, and Anders Osborne. Additionally, Big Daddy Kane, Roy Hargrove, Maceo Parker, Fred Wesley, Joshua Redman, Marcus King, and Bernie Worrell, among others.
Very few concertgoers have been untouched by the Tiny Universe live. They toured the country with the Allman Brothers, My Morning Jacket, D’Angelo, The Roots, and Public Enemy. Also, Bob Weir of The Grateful Dead, Parliament Funkadelic, Slightly Stoopid, and Widespread Panic. In addition to KDTU, Karl Denson aka “Diesel” is a founding member of the seminal groove act The Greyboy Allstars.
Recommended for fans of Parliament Funkadelic, Galactic, Greyboy Allstars and Soulive.

Kindred the Family Soul
2026-01-04 19:00 - 21:00
“inspiring melds of soul, R&B, hip-hop, funk, pop… A mindblower.” – AllMusic

Kindred the Family Soul is a Grammy-nominated adult contemporary R&B duo from Philadelphia consisting of husband-and-wife Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon. Big hit singles elude them, but they maintain a strong following that appreciates their unwavering dedication to releasing relatable, mature R&B. Also, Dantzler and Graydon co-write most of their songs, which are rooted in traditional soul and gospel.
Dantzler and Graydon began as solo performers. Dantzler was born in Philadelphia and got his start in the music business writing songs for Pebbles and Bell Biv DeVoe. Graydon, from Washington, D.C., signed a solo deal at the age of 15. The two united and began writing songs, but then married and started a family. However, Dantzler went back to trying to make it on the local scene. He and Graydon began performing at the Black Lily club, where they caught the attention of Jill Scott.
They spent the next two years working on the debut Kindred the Family Soul album, 2003’s Surrender to Love. It featured an impressive cast of collaborators, including Scott, string arranger Larry Gold, Bilal, King Britt, and Jazmine Sullivan. Thus, it was nominated for a Grammy in the category of Best R&B/Soul Album. 2005’s In This Life Together was inspired by Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis’ memoir of the same name. 2008’s The Arrival became their highest-charting title to that point. Here, it reached number sixty-seven on the Billboard 200 and number seven on the R&B Albums chart.
2011’s Love Has No Recession features guests ranging from go-go pioneer Chuck Brown to relative newcomer BJ the Chicago Kid. Kindred’s sixth full-length, 2016’s Legacy of Love, climbed into the top fifteen of the Billboard R&B chart.
Recommended for fans of Jill Scott, Sade, Mary J. Blige and Luther Vandross.

Urban Classic Presents the Music of Earth Wind and Fire
2026-01-09 19:00 - 21:00
Join Minneapolis’ own Urban Classic, led by Michael Bland, for a concert/show dedicated to the music of Earth, Wind & Fire. Prepare to groove as this powerhouse band, featuring a horn section, delivers a high-energy performance of the legendary Earth Wind and Fire funk, soul, and R&B hits. Michael Bland and his band will deliver a powerful and electrifying performance of the EWF major hits. This is a powerhouse performance you won’t want to miss.
Drummer Michael Bland is best known for his work with Prince and the New Power Generation. Starting in 1989, he was a member of NPG. Also, Bland played with Prince live and on albums for seven years. In 2010, Bland became a member of Nick Jonas & the Administration, a side project of Nick Jonas (Jonas Brothers). Furthermore, Bland worked with Vulfpeck, playing drums on the 2017 single “Hero Town”. Additionally, he has recorded with Cory Wong several times. Bland is also a member of Soul Asylum.
Michael Bland, Musical Director and drums (NPG/Soul Asylum)
Homer O’Dell, guitar (Mint Condition)
G Sharp, vocals (Mazarati)
Ashley Commodore, vocals (Stokley)
Jay Bee, vocals (The Routine)
Bill Brown, keyboards (Jonny Lang)
Ron Long, bass (Purple Experience)
Scott Agster, trombone
Riley Helgeson, trumpet
Josh May, trumpet
John Bertsch, saxophone
Recommended for fans of Earth, Wind & Fire, Al Green, The O’Jays and James Brown.
📸: Amore Lux Studios

Jamecia Bennett Presents: The Boy Is Mine – A Tribute to Brandy & Monica
2026-01-10 19:00 - 21:00
Brandy and Monica are both legends of R&B.
These ladies let the music speak.

Get ready for an unforgettable night as 3x Grammy–winning powerhouse Jamecia Bennett returns with The Boy Is Mine Tour! Here, she honors two of R&B’s most influential queens.
American Idol favorite Paris Bennett will deliver a stunning tribute to Brandy. Brandy, the multi-platinum R&B icon, is known across the world as “The Vocal Bible” for her unmatched vocal mastery.
Broadway actress & internationally recorded artist Mon Aerie will paying homage to Monica, the multi-platinum superstar. Additionally, Monica became the youngest artist to achieve two consecutive Number One hits on the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart.
Jamecia Bennett will perform tributes to BOTH legendary divas, backed by her electrifying live band. Here, she will bring the soul, the vocals, and the era we all love.
This will be an epic night of nostalgia, vocals, and pure R&B magic that you do not want to miss.
3-time Grammy award winner Jamecia Bennett, CEO of Minnesota Movement Entertainment, put on her production hat. Here, she produced an epic tribute to these two phenomenal young women. Moreover, this is music that has been the 90s R&B soul soundtrack to our lives.
Recommended for fans of Brandy, Monica, Aretha Franklin and Sounds of Blackness.

T. Mychael Rambo: The Message in Our Music
2026-01-18 19:00 - 21:00
“local theater legend” – Music in MN

An evening of song, spoken word and celebration that amplifies the powerful message of Dr. King while paying tribute to the timeless messages found in African American (“Our”) music!
Featuring:
Patricia Lacy, vocals
Tonia Hughes-Kendrick, vocals
Maya Marchelle, vocals
Thomasina Petrus, vocals
Brian Ziemniak, piano
David Feily, guitar
Tony Axtell, bass
Jovon Williams, saxophone
Daryl Boudreaux, percussion
Brian Kendrick, drums
A three-time Emmy Award-winning actor, vocalist, arts educator and community organizer; T. Mychael Rambo is a long-standing Twin Cities arts community pillar.
T. Mychael has made an indelible mark in the Twin Cities. Here, he has performed principal roles at such theaters as the Guthrie, Ordway Theatre, Illusion Theatre, and Mixed Blood. Also, Park Square Theatre, Ten Thousand Things, Children’s Theatre and Minnesota Opera among others. His Penumbra Theatre credits alone include: Black Nativity, Don’t Bother Me I Can’t Cope, Dinah Was, Last Minstrel Show, Jitney, Spunk, Gem of the Ocean, Ain’t Misbehavin, Piano Lesson, and Ballad of Emmett Till to name just a few.
Nationally and internationally his stage credits include Carnegie Hall and performances abroad in Africa, Europe and South America. He has appeared in local and national television commercials. Also, feature films (The Cure, Justice, Crossing the Bridge, Wooley Boys) HBO mini-series (Laurel Avenue, Equinox), and other television programming. T. Mychael is an accomplished residency artist (COMPAS, Young Audiences, MN State Arts Board, VocalEssence). Further, he is an affiliate professor in the College of Liberal Arts, Theatre Arts and Dance at University of Minnesota.
As a recording artist, Rambo has released two popular CDs. 2004’s Simply is a collection of jazz standards. 2006’s The Gift; A Christmas With Love is a selection of original and holiday classics.
Recommended for fans of Stevie Wonder, Peabo Bryson, Marvin Gaye and Vanessa Williams.

Rebirth Brass Band
2026-01-19 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-01-19 21:00 - 23:00
“there is not a band on earth that is better. Stunning.” – Flea, Red Hot Chili Peppers

For almost four decades, the Grammy-winning Rebirth Brass Band has been “stunning” fans. Further, they are loved worldwide for their fiery live shows and rich musical catalog. Their trademark sound pays homage to the New Orleans brass band tradition. Also, they weave a tapestry that combines elements of jazz, funk, soul, R&B. Then, they incorporate more of the sounds from the streets they grew up on. Their sound has traveled from their legendary twenty-five-year run of Tuesday nights at the Maple Leaf to stages all over the world. Rebirth is the soundtrack of the Crescent City and her premier musical ambassador.
Rebirth was founded by brothers Phil and Keith Frazier over thirty-five years ago. They began their career playing on the sidewalks of the French Quarter and quickly landed gigs at second line parades. Those auspicious beginnings have led to thousands of shows to music aficionados everywhere, including heads of state and royalty.
The band’s unique “soundtrack of New Orleans” has also garnered admiration from artists of all genres. They’ve shared the stage and collaborated with everyone from the Grateful Dead to the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Also, Maceo Parker, Green Day, U2, James Brown, 311, G-Love, MuteMath, Juvenile, Train, Big Freedia, Ani DiFranco, and Galactic. Further, Allen Toussaint, Neville Brothers, Quincy Jones and Trombone Shorty.
Recommended for fans of Trombone Shorty, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Kermit Ruffins and Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Bruce A. Henry
2026-01-24 19:00 - 21:00
“A true master of the jazz art form.” – Mpls.St.Paul Magazine

Known as a “man of great musical imagination,” Bruce Henry is an internationally-known vocalist, composer, storyteller, recording artist and educator. Additionally, Bruce teaches musical history, traditions and culture as he entertains and enraptures audiences with his vocal agility. Anchored in Chicago, with roots in the Twin Cities, Bruce shares his expertise and creativity across the nation and overseas.
Bruce is a singer and bandleader with a long history of stellar jazz concerts, moving R&B shows and revered tribute performances. Here, his tribute shows entertain audiences with inspired interpretations of classics. Furthermore, he has honored Stevie Wonder, Al Jarreau, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, Duke Ellington and George Gershwin. As a vocalist extraordinaire, he handles an eclectic mix of styles with ease.
Both his voice and mind are treasures, and a concert, residency or workshop with Bruce is not to be missed. They leave you lifted, enriched and energized from his performance. Moreover, you become more knowledgeable, reflective and inspired from his innate ability to teach. Also, he developed his program The Evolution of African American Music for residencies, informative concerts and published curriculum. Time spent in community with Bruce and friends, whether in concert or workshop, is pure joy.
Recommended for fans of Al Jarreau, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin.

Jarrod Lawson
2026-01-28 19:00 - 21:00
“absolutely top-quality soul music… outstanding” – BBC Music

It was in late 2022 that Jarrod Lawson had the biggest, and most unexpected, thrill of his music career. He had just received a glowing endorsement in print from Michelle Obama, in an Entertainment Weekly interview. When asked who she was listening to, after mentioning Beyonce, added “There’s this young jazz, blue-eyed soul kid Jarrod Lawson that I’m loving.”
At the time Jarrod was receiving major airplay in the U.S. and in Europe. Here, this was largely due to his remake of the Isley Brothers Seventies classic “Footsteps In The Dark”. This followed his 2020 sophomore album Be the Change. That album made its mark immediately, with entries at #1 on Amazon’s Jazz Albums chart and at #2 on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.
For singer/songwriter/keyboardist Lawson, the appreciation of his music in his native U.S. was particularly gratifying. His 2014 breakthrough had been primarily in Europe, where in a whirlwind couple of years he played festival, club and concert dates in fifteen countries. Additionally, this included the North Sea Jazz Festival, London Jazz Festival and the world-renowned Ronnie Scott’s Club. Furthermore, he powered his way into the Dutch Top Forty Albums chart.
He has since performed around the world in Tokyo, Beijing, Melbourne and at Indonesia’s Java Jazz festival. Further, in the U.S. he has performed at many of the leading jazz venues from New York to Seattle.
The album is a beautiful, restrained, dreamy mix of love songs, irreverence and social commentary. Thus, SoulTracks.com described the album as “a masterpiece”. Also, they hailed it “an instant classic that would have fit just as comfortably in 1970 as it does in 2020”.
Recommended for fans of Stevie Wonder, Bobby Caldwell, Rachelle Ferrell and Rahsaan Patterson.

Avery*Sunshine
2026-02-05 19:00 - 21:00
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 7pm Show
*Pre-purchase and receive a free bottle of Washington Hill Merlot.

“her playful charisma and those heavenly vocals” – NPR

Chester, PA native Avery*Sunshine has established herself as a musical powerhouse. Here she seamlessly blends her roles as a pianist, singer, songwriter, and producer. A proud graduate of Spelman College, she moved from the academic halls to the global stage. Her journey is a testament to her talent, dedication, and passion for music. Together with her husband and Grammy-nominated partner, Dana Johnson, Avery has made Atlanta her stronghold. There, they nurture and expand their creative and entrepreneurial ventures.
Avery’s career is marked by significant achievements, including four top twenty hits on the Billboard charts. Moreover, her song “Call My Name” reached the coveted #1 spot, affirming her place in the music industry. Beyond her personal successes, Avery is a committed advocate for artists. As a Board Governor for the Atlanta Chapter of the Recording Academy, she contributes to shaping the music landscape. Additionally, her entrepreneurial spirit shines through her co-founding and partnership in BigShine Recordings, a label dedicated to empowering independent artists.
Avery*Sunshine’s influence extends across the globe through her international tours. There, she touches audiences in Asia, Europe, UK and Australia with her soulful music and dynamic performances. Currently, she is captivating fans with her musical web series “So Glad To Know You.” This provides an intimate look at her creative journey and connection with music.
Sunshine’s biography encapsulates not just her musical achievements but her role as a luminary in the industry. Here, she shines a light on the power of independence, creativity, and the unifying force of music. With Atlanta as her backdrop, she continues to inspire and captivate, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those who witness her artistry.
Recommended for fans of Ledisi, Lalah Hathaway, Leela James and Musiq Soulchild.

Meshell Ndegeocello
2026-02-09 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-09 21:00 - 23:00
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 7pm Show
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 9pm Show
*Pre-purchase and receive a free bottle of Washington Hill Merlot.

“The world needs more musicians like her, creatively restless and ambitious” – NPR

Meshell Ndegeocello has survived the best and the worst of what a career in music has to offer. She eschewed genre for originality, celebrity for longevity, and musical trends for musical truths. Fans have come to expect the unexpected and follow her journey. Then, she delves into soul, R&B, jazz, hip-hop, rock, all bound by the search for love, justice, respect and resolution. Thus, these sonic investigations have defied and redefined expectations for women, for queer artists, and for black music for over thirty years. Additionally, she remains one of few women who write the music, sing the songs, and lead the band.
A bass player above all else, Meshell brings her warm, fat, and melodic groove to everything she does. She has earned a Grammy award among numerous nominations. Moreover, she has played alongside the Rolling Stones, Madonna, Alanis Morrisette, James Blood Ulmer, and The Blind Boys of Alabama. Also, Tony Allen, John Medeski, Billy Preston, and Chaka Khan. As for her own bass-playing influences, she credits Sting, Jaco Pastorius, Family Man Barrett, and Stevie Wonder. Meshell is always grateful to share the stage and believes music is a fellowship. Here, she looks to spread that gospel with every creation and collaboration.
Ndegeocello says that she tries to create music that musicians enjoy playing. “I really love the musical interaction – the playing off of each other,” she says. “It’s such a divine experience. Playing music is one of the few spaces where I feel genderless and raceless. And when the audience can dance, move, and experience transcendence while we are playing live, it feels like I have purpose.”

All Sweet Things: A Celebration of Black Love
2026-02-14 21:30 - 23:30
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 9:30pm Show
*Pre-purchase and receive a free bottle of Washington Hill Merlot.

Exploring the passion, emotions, social depictions and challenges of modern relationships.

“All Sweet Things: A Celebration of Black Love” explores the passion, emotions, social depictions and challenges of modern relationships. Here, they achieve this through the diverse sonic landscapes of R&B, neo-soul, folk and pop music. This celebratory experience showcases the extraordinary vocal, songwriting and arranging prowess of some of the Twin Cities’ most soulful singers!!
From Houston TX, Traiveon brings a southern, soulful vibe to the Twin Cities music scene. He gained respect on drums and vocals while supporting Mayyadda, Black Velvet Punks, Joe Davis & The Poetic Diaspora and Bluehound. Also, he composes for his band Traiveon and Candi. Here, he crafts vocal arrangements that seamlessly blend the classic sounds of Motown with modern R&B & neo-soul.

Learn More: https://traiveon.com/

Jackson Hurst emerges as a solo artist with a different sound than he’s known for in the Twin Cities. Furthermore, the church kid forges a congruent and individual music career in the genres of R&B/soul and pop, drawing influence from his roots in Gospel. Here, Hurst is just at the beginning of a new legacy built as an artist.
Recommended for fans of Erykah Badu, D’Angelo, Jill Scott and Musiq Soulchild.

Cory Henry Duo Feat. Robert "Sput" Searight
2026-02-15 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-02-15 20:00 - 22:00
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 5:30pm Show
Valentine’s Menu Add-On – 8pm Show
*Pre-purchase and receive a free bottle of Washington Hill Merlot.

“joyfully mixes gospel harmony, R&B hooks, and jazz” – All About Jazz

Grammy-winning artist Cory Henry has made a significant mark in the music industry. He recently won the award for Best Roots Gospel Album in 2025 for his deeply personal project, Church. This album reflects the rich musical heritage that has shaped his artistry and resonated with audiences worldwide. Additionally, PBS aired a documentary on the making of Church, providing an intimate look at his creative process.
Henry’s versatility as a musician has led him to work with a diverse array of artists. These include Bruce Springsteen, Imagine Dragons, Kanye West, Stevie Wonder & more.
Originally hailing from Brooklyn, New York, Cory was a key member of the Grammy-winning group Snarky Puppy. Then, he launched his solo career in 2018 with his debut, Art of Love. His sophomore project, Something to Say, was Grammy-nominated for Best Progressive R&B Album in 2022. Here, this showcased his growth as an artist. He followed up with Operation Funk in 2023, and his live album, Live at the Piano, received a nomination in 2024.
In 2024, while touring with the legendary Stevie Wonder, Henry recorded a holiday album titled A Wonderful Holiday. He collaborated with members of Wonder’s band, recording during his days off. This project showcases his ability to blend his unique style, further highlighting his musical versatility. Additionally, Cory made a memorable appearance as a guest performer with Jon Batiste at Coachella in 2024.
Cory Henry’s journey from the vibrant streets of Brooklyn to international stages is a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. As he continues to explore new musical territories and push boundaries, Henry remains an influential figure in contemporary music.
Recommended for fans of Snarky Puppy, Jon Batiste, Stevie Wonder and Anderson.Paak.

Songstress - A Tribute to Anita Baker
2026-02-16 19:00 - 21:00
“intensely, passionately romantic… sophisticated pop-soul” – New York Times

With her classy, refined brand of romantic soul, Anita Baker was one of the definitive voices of R&B in the 1980s. She is often associated with the “quiet storm” sub-genre. However, Baker’s sound incorporates not only R&B, but also elements of jazz, gospel, and pop. In this new show, an all-star collection of Twin Cities talent celebrates her biggest hits and her enduring sound.
A member of the Midwest music scene for many years, Ginger Commodore is a regular visitor to the Dakota stage. Classically trained, gospel influenced, and jazz inspired, Ginger’s musical foundation is a true amalgam of musical styles. Further, Ginger presents her sound with her own unique delivery.
Originally from Chicago, Kendra Glenn realized her gift of singing at age 10 in church choir. Then, Kendra moved to the Twin Cities in the early 90’s and has made herself a household name. Furthermore, she has worked with Nicholas David, R Factor, Scott Holt, and many others.
Aimee K. Bryant’s work has always revolved around a well-told story. A longtime member of the Twin Cities theater scene, she performs on some of the nation’s most acclaimed stages. For example, The Guthrie Theatre, Ten Thousand Things, Penumbra Theatre and the Children’s Theatre Company. Furthermore, she is a Founding Ensemble Member of Congo Square Theatre. McKnight Theatre selected her as an Artist Fellow, and City Pages named her Actress of the Year.
Band:
Deevo Dee, guitar
Brian Ziemniak, keyboards
Tony Axtell, bass
Brian Kendrick, drums
Daryl Boudreaux, percussion
Recommended for fans of Vanessa Williams, Luther Vandross, Peabo Bryson and Patti LaBelle.

Kandace Springs
2026-02-17 19:00 - 21:00, 2026-02-17 21:00 - 22:00
“a voice that could melt snow” – Prince

Pianist and singer Kandace Springs is one of the premier female artists of the jazz/soul genre. Her natural gifts for lyricism and soulfulness have earned her recognition worldwide. Further, her late mentor Prince described her as having “a voice that could melt snow”.
The Nashville native has racked up an impressive list of accomplishments. Here, she has made several national TV appearances, and headlines major jazz festivals. Moreover, she has collaborated with such luminaries as Christian McBride, Roy Hargrove, David Sanborn and Norah Jones. The Washington Post exclaims, “Kandace Springs’s voice is undeniable. It’s one of those generational voices; from the first note, you know it’s special.”
She embodies the same spirit and soul of the great vocalists of the past on whose shoulders she stands. She simultaneously draws on jazz legends Ella Fitzgerald and Carmen McRae and multi-genre masters like Nina Simone and Roberta Flack. To that end, Springs recently released an orchestral reimagining of Billie Holiday’s Lady in Satin. Kandace looks forward to releasing a new album in Spring 2026 and hitting the road backed by her ace all-female rhythm section.
Kandace’s 2024 release, Run Your Race, was a tribute to her late father, legendary Nashville soul singer Scat Springs. Here, it is the first album of hers to feature almost all original songs. Every song was written by Kandace both solo and with some stellar collaborators. Prior to that in 2020, Kandace released The Women Who Raised Me. There, the album garnered five-star reviews from DownBeat and The New Yorker. Additionally, it won the Deutscher JazzPreis for best vocal album of the year.
Recommended for fans of Lizz Wright, Gregory Porter, Cassandra Wilson and Prince.

esperanza spalding
2026-02-21 19:00 - 21:00
“one of the most fruitful and strikingly original careers in contemporary pop.” – Rolling Stone

Here, esperanza performs songs from all eight of her previous albums, songs from current releases, plus a special preview of her forthcoming project. She emphasizes simplicity and intimacy of voice, bass, and songs in this special trio configuration.
Born in 1984 in Portland, Oregon, esperanza spalding is an eaabibacliitoti* artist. She trained and initiated in the North American (masculine) jazz lineage and tradition. Her work interweaves through various combinations of instrumental music, bass playing, improvisation, singing, composition, poetry, dance, and therapeutic research. She also engages in storytelling, teaching, regenerative agriculture, urban land & artist-sanctuary custodianship. Moreover, through her art she grows in love as a daughter, sister, cousin, niece, auntie, great-auntie, friend. She collaborates with her hometown community to decolonize within and through that community.
2024’s Milton + esperanza is spalding’s first new album since she released 2021’s songwrights apothecary lab. That album, and 2019’s 12 Little Spells, both won Grammy Awards (Best Jazz Vocal Album). spalding released a protest song in 2024 entitled “Não Ao Marco Temporal” that was recorded in Rio. A five-time Grammy winner and eleven-time nominee, spalding has previously released eight full length albums. She has worked with her heroes, including Milton Nascimento and Wayne Shorter. Furthermore, she has collaborated with Q-Tip, Janelle Monae, Robert Glasper, Terri Lyne Carrington and many others.
She also co-leads workshops and therapeutic-arts research residencies. She does this through her dance project “Off Brand gOdds” and her therapeutic music incubator “Songwrights Apothecary Lab”. In 2024, she received the Doris Duke Foundation Artist Award and was a 2016 Ford Foundation “Art of Change” Fellow.
*European-African ancestored being influenced by American cultures living in Indigenous Territories of Turtle Island.
Recommended for fans of Stevie Wonder, Robert Glasper, D’Angelo and Cécile McLorin Salvant.
These tickets do not qualify for the A-Train discount.

Shemekia Copeland
2026-02-25 19:00 - 21:00
“Copeland is the greatest blues singer of her generation.” – Washington Post

Shemekia Copeland possesses one of the most instantly recognizable and deeply soulful roots music voices of our time. The multi-Grammy nominee is beloved and honored worldwide for the fearlessness, honesty and humor of her revelatory songs. Additionally, she is celebrated for her winning, engaging personality. The Chicago Tribune says, “Copeland is the greatest female blues vocalist working today. There’s no mistaking the majesty of her instrument, nor the ferocity of her delivery.”
On Copeland’s latest album, 2024’s Blame It On Eve, the songs all hit hard. Here, jaw-dropping performances instantly take hold and command repeated listening. “There’s serious business on the new album,” Copeland says. “But there are a lot of smiles here too, a lot of joyous moments. It’s my blues for sure but it’s the brighter side. Issues are always important to me, but so is rocking, dancing and just having fun. And that’s something we all can all agree on.”
With Blame It On Eve, Copeland embarks on what she calls “a vacation from all the heaviness.” It features twelve new songs that tackle subjects as important as a woman’s right to choose and climate change. However, it also leaves space for Copeland to have fun and unwind. Here, Copeland is inspired throughout.
Forbes declared, “Shemekia is fearless, honest and hopeful…she holds back nothing as she delivers hard-hitting musical truths.” Further, John Prine paid her a huge compliment when he said, “She simply doesn’t sound like anybody else.” And none other than Copeland’s friend, the legendary Mavis Staples, announced, “I am so happy Shemekia is delivering these songs that the world needs to hear. Her voice is strong and soulful, and her message comes from her heart.”
Recommended for fans of Koko Taylor, Bettye LaVette, Ruthie Foster and Buddy Guy.

The Pharcyde
2026-02-27 18:30 - 20:30, 2026-02-27 21:00 - 23:00
“self-conscious rap smarts and postmodern pop-cult potpourri” – Pitchfork

In the early 90’s, gangsta rap consumed the airwaves, and the majority of West Coast rappers strapped on their Locs, Chuck Taylor’s & Ben Davis’. However, The Pharcyde decidedly maintained a willfully weird vision, staying true to themselves. There, with their left field but still South-Central sensibility, rap had seen few groups so self-deprecating and so smart. Moreover, they featured four visionary rappers adroitly able to split the difference between helium-voiced and hard-core.
Listening to Bizarre Ride II the Pharcyde two full decades after its release, its sense of timeliness is unmistakable. Every song on the album inverts a hoary hip-hop cliché. The album features classics like “Oh Shit,” “Otha Fish”, “Ya’ Mama,” and hit single, “Passing Me By”. Thus, it’s not surprising that it went Platinum and garnered comparisons to De La Soul and Tribe Called Quest. Everyone from Pitchfork Media to The Source has hailed it as one of the greatest albums ever made.
Speaking on the passage of time, their second release, LabCabInCalifornia, has revealed exactly how far-reaching The Pharcyde’s vision was. There, they enlisted a young, unknown James Yancey aka J DILLA to produce beats, including the classic “Runnin”. Then, they collaborated with director Spike Jonze (“Being John Malkovich” “Adaptation”) on the groundbreaking video for “Drop”. The album consistently reinforced their steadfast refusal to tread familiar artistic grounds.
Today, The Pharcyde is still performing and touring the globe. They continue to hone their individual abilities yet carry on the name & legacy in its original fashion. They still seduce their audience with the same boyish charm that founded them at the beginning. The Pharcyde is still influencing the hip-hop artists and sounds of today and will continue to for years to come.
Recommended for fans of A Tribe Called Quest, De La Soul, Digital Underground and Beastie Boys.
